As part of a Salesforce fund established to combat the impact of COVID-19, grants were distributed to a diverse group of businesses from neighborhoods across the city
Today, Salesforce announced it has distributed $870,000 in grants as part of the 2021 Salesforce San Francisco Small Business Grants program. The $1 million fund, announced in September, provides support for San Francisco small businesses impacted by the continued emphasis on virtual work and events resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Grant recipients were selected from diverse industries and neighborhoods, showcasing the strong, vibrant local business community in the city Salesforce calls home.
“The success of our small businesses is in part closely tied to the well-being of our communities,” said Ebony Beckwith, Chief Philanthropy Officer, Salesforce. “I’m excited about this grant program because it supports an equitable recovery through the pandemic, and deepens our ongoing investment in diverse local entrepreneurs.”
This is the second time that Salesforce has sponsored a grant program specifically for San Francisco small businesses. This year’s grants were distributed to 87 small businesses, with grantees made up of 54% women, 28% Black or African American, 28% Hispanic, 38% Asian, and 9% LGBTQ+-owned businesses. Recipients included a broad range of industries, most prominently restaurants and bars, retail, professional services, personal services, and healthcare.
“Small businesses have remained integral to the communities they serve, even throughout the pandemic,” said Enrique Ortegon, SVP, SMB, Salesforce. “As part of the San Francisco community, Salesforce is proud to give back to small businesses in our own backyard through this grant program.”
Paula Tejeda is the owner of Chile Lindo, a beloved deli, coffee, and empanada shop in the Mission District. Chile Lindo’s vision is to share and spread Chilean cuisine and culture throughout the Bay Area and beyond. Tejeda will use this grant to continue supporting her community by employing local artists and musicians, and providing immigrants with jobs and training that set them up for lifelong success.
Source: salesforce.com
